Paper & Fabric Framing: Circular Wall Art

This woven-paper artwork (“circulo de papel”) is a show-stopper  — but also poses design and practical challenges when framing for display.

Evoking techniques from the Oaxacan people of ancient Mexico, the delicate weaving is partially see-through — so the mat upon which it is mounted is partially visible.  We used a Bainbridge, Dover Gray mat — which we consider a “rich” neutral – to provide contrast to the weave, but not so much as to distract from the colors within the piece of art. The clean simplicity of a Larson-Juhl, 3/4″ natural-maple frame accents the intricate design patterns in the art, picks up the color and tone of the weave, and also reinforces that this piece is of the earth.

Given both the delicate nature of the piece and large, 35″x35″ size, we used Tru-Vue conservation-clear acrylic rather than glass. It is rated as providing 99% protection from UV light to diminish fading and indistinguishable from glass to the eye. The advantage in its’ use here is it keeps the piece significantly lighter and, should the piece ever suffer a fall or impact, the acrylic won’t shatter, cut and damage or destroy valuable artwork.

Textiles, cloth, and related craftwork can present challenges both from a design and framing standpoint. Make sure to have a discussion with your framer about the techniques and products to be used and what results can be expected. We have extensive experience both designing and framing pieces such as this, so if you can’t frame with us, please feel free to reach out if you have questions, we’re happy to help.